The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently announced the winners of the 2023 Development Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions from Associate Member nations in advancing cricket on various fronts. Oman, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Scotland have emerged as champions in their respective categories, highlighting their impactful initiatives in cricket development.
Oman Leads in Female Cricket Initiative
Oman secured the “100% Cricket Female Cricket Initiative of the Year” award for its pioneering efforts in promoting women’s cricket through the Cricket4Her program. This initiative has significantly enhanced the landscape of women’s cricket in Oman, fostering talent development and empowering young women. With initiatives like soft ball tournaments and the transition to hard ball cricket leagues, Oman Cricket aims to expand opportunities for female cricketers across the country. Mr. Pankaj Khimji, Chairman of Oman Cricket, expressed optimism about the program’s future growth, emphasizing the role of community involvement in furthering cricket’s reach.
UAE’s Unbeatable Performance
The UAE clinched the “ICC Associate Member Women’s Performance of the Year” award following their remarkable unbeaten run at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier in Kuala Lumpur. Their victorious campaign culminated in a final triumph over Thailand, showcasing the team’s exceptional talent and dedication. Mubashshir Usmani, General Secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board, highlighted the UAE’s commitment to promoting women’s cricket, attributing their success to rigorous training and strategic development efforts. The team’s achievements underscore their rising stature in international women’s cricket.
Scotland’s Social Impact Through Cricket
In the category of “Cricket 4 Good Social Impact Initiative of the Year,” Scotland was recognized for its collaboration with Beyond Boundaries, a charity focusing on using cricket to support disadvantaged youth. Through initiatives like Disability Champion Clubs, the Wee Bash for women’s cricket, and community outreach programs, Cricket Scotland has made significant strides in fostering inclusivity and social change. Nicola Wilson, Head of Development for Cricket Scotland, emphasized the transformative impact of these initiatives on communities across Scotland, underscoring the power of sport in driving positive societal outcomes.